Bye Week 2025: Collegefootballfan.com regular 2025 post-season report

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Lebanon, TN – After attending 22 college football games over the past 18 weeks, we figured this past weekend would allow us to make some observations, so we conclude this year’s adventure with our 2025 post-season report.  Like most college fans, this past weekend was spent watching the playoff debacles on television rather than attending any in person.  And please rest assured, our 2025 season isn’t over! It’s just about to heat up. We look forward to five more games on our billet. From December 30 – January 19, we will attend the Liberty Mutual Music City Classic Bowl, The CapitalOne Orange Bowl, the FCS championship, The Chick-fil-A Peach and the CFP title game. It doesn’t get better than that for collegefootballfan.com!

First observation: CFP letdown

Glad we didn’t buy any tickets to attend any of the opening round CFP games.  Friday night played two teams with noticeable flaws. TV broadcasters can’t say that.  Got to keep everything positive so viewers keep watching to sell advertising time.  Alabama receivers dropped too many catchable passes. The Oklahoma offensive line couldn’t protect their quarterback.  Good thing these players only make the big bucks for their names, images and likenesses. Based on what they demonstrated, they don’t possess enough skills to play their positions for pay. 

Second Observation: we already identified improvements for our favorite sport

Between Texas A&M and Miami. Neither had an effective QB and neither played well on special teams. Blame the wind to some extent, but neither program seemed any good otherwise in any phase of kicking.  The two later games; Ole Miss vs Tulane and Oregon vs, James Madison? We refuse to get into any heavy dialogue here. Instead of looking over all the media’s reactionary critiques around their 2025 post season reports, please read a full encapsulation of what the how’s and why’s of what happened by checking out our book published in 2023:  Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales; The Good the Fun and the Ugly.

To start our 2025 post-season report, we began with FCS Montana State at Oregon. The now No. 5 Oregon Ducks RB Noah Whittington scores from the one to extend the Oregon lead 31-0 late in the second quarter. Montana State finished No. 2 in the FCS. The final; score of 59-13 demonstrates the disparity of big budgets over much smaller budgets.
To start our 2025 post-season report, we began with FCS Montana State at Oregon. The now No. 5 Oregon Ducks RB Noah Whittington scores from the one to extend the Oregon lead 31-0 late in the second quarter. Montana State finished No. 2 in the FCS. The final score of 59-13 demonstrates the disparity of big budget programs over much smaller ones.

No brag, just fact

Media reports react now to such things as disparity in football budgets, network empowerment, manipulative scheduling, NIL contributions, formation of super conference take overs, transfer portal monopolization etc., etc.  In our book covering our history of attending over 700 games over 45 years in games played by every FBS team, we identified these issues and followed up with two conclusive essays.

In the first, “Vision of the Future,” you’re already witnessing the impact of recent changes making college the FBS championship a questionable, unwatchable, uninteresting path to determine one, true national champion.  Equal competition among 136 college football programs exposes a farce. The current playoff format negates fun for players and fans alike. In Fifty Years, observations made regarding the disparity and monopolization by the “have” programs over the “have-nots” does not make for a better game on the playing field.  Changes benefit few programs and fewer fans of this great sport. Coffers are filled for networks, universities and for some students who make more money than they know what to do with. We point out that college football now competes with the pros for talent. Players don’t go to college for four years anymore. And seriously, with all these tranfers, are they really focused on getting educations?

What are the Solutions?

We may not offer the final answers to maintain some sense of competitiveness on the playing fields. However, we desire to improve the game for more fans rather than fewer. All prefer to follow their favorite teams and alma maters to have a shot to win a championship in this great sport. Of course, among 136, only one rises to the top. We offer at least some solutions to start to overcome some of the changes currently reducing competition among most teams to win a national championship. It all starts with the variable amounts of money each football program raises.

In the second essay, “For the Love of the Game,” we offer solutions to assure more equality rather than monopolization of the sport.  Fifty Years addresses strength of schedules, graduate players, optional post-season play for all teams, scheduling manipulations, use of power points, budgets beyond the football program, playoff formats and other factors to consider improvements for leveling playing fields for 136 schools.  In the end, probably the best move is to break up the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) into two separate entities.  Determine these based on budgets alone. Can college football survive with two divisions of “major” college football?

Another college football playoff? Why not? More football games that matter

With that, FBS#1 and FBS#2 play for separate national championships and for playoffs among schools with comparable budgets for their football programs. Of course, it all starts with money allocated from television networks. Think about two playoff formats of 16 teams each playing for two separate titles at the end of the season. See Ole Miss vs. Tulane and Oregon vs. James Madison.  Let the latter two in each game play for a separate championship.  Better games, better results, more college football interest, and another championship. It beats watching 40 separate “bowl games.” In reality, we consider most as “consolation games.” Instead of just feeling good, give teams a reason to play for a championship. However, play against teams with similar budgets. That’s why we already have a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Lower budgets, separate playoff, separate champion.

We added Delaware as the 136th FBS program when they joined from the FCS this season. Here, their defense puts the stop to Jacksonville Stae All-American RB CAm Cook. How long before we see the Fighting Blue Hens challenge for No. 1 in the FBS. They hae tremendous football history in small school divisions.
We added Delaware as the 136th FBS program when they joined from the FCS this season. Here, their defense puts the stop to Jacksonville State All-American RB Cam Cook. How long before we see the Fighting Blue Hens challenge for No. 1 in the FBS? They have tremendous football history in small school divisions. Their future?

Best of the best players seen per our 2025 post-season report

As a member of the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), we’ve not only attended games where we watched the best of the best players perform, we also got to vote for them regarding some post-season awards. Here below, we list some of the players we voted for that were selected by the FWAA committee for its First Team All-Americans. Among them, we submitted votes for the Maxwell (best player overall), Nagurski (Defensive), John Mackey (TE) and Outland (OL) Trophy winners of 2025

Offense

QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana (Maxwell, Davey O’Brien and Heisman Trophies)

RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame (Doak Walker Award)

WR Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State (seen in 2024)

TE Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt (John Mackey Award)

OL Spencer Fano, Utah (seen in 2024) (Outland Trophy)

OL Carter Smith, Indiana      

IU QB Fernando Mendoza (15) celebrates as WR Elijah Sarratt (13) takes in one of his nine receptions as he did many others - on a flag pattern to the outside.
IU QB Fernando Mendoza (15) celebrates another score against Illinois as WR Elijah Sarratt (13) hauls in one of his nine receptions as he did many others – on a flag pattern to the outside.

Second team

QB Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt; RB Cam Cook, Jacksonville State; WR Omar Cooper, Indiana; TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon; OL Olaivevega, Penn State; OL Will Jeffcoat, Army; OL Laurence Seymour. WKU; C Jake Slaughter, Florida

Defense

NT Landon Robinson, Navy

LB Aiden Fisher, Indiana

DB Caleb Downs, Ohio State (seen in 2024)

DB Leonard Moore, Notre Dame

Second Team

DE John Henry Daley, Utah (seen in 2024); LB Anthony Hill, Texas (seen in 2024); DB Hezekiah Masses, Cal

Note: We’ll see Texas Tech play Oregon in the CapitalOne Orange Bowl. Tech features First Team All-American DE David Bailey and LB Jacob Rodriguez.

Commodore football success and excitement start right here with No. 2, quarterback Diego Pavia.
Commodore football success and excitement started right here with No. 2, quarterback Diego Pavia.

Ranked teams of 2025 post-season seen in action

Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS):

No. 1 Indiana 63 Illinois 10

No. 4 Texas Tech to play Jan. 1 vs. No. 5 Oregon in CapitalOne Orange Bowl

No. 5 Oregon 59 Montana State 13 (No. 2 FCS)

No. 5 Oregon 30 Penn State 24

No. 11 Notre Dame 41 Navy 14

No. 14 Vanderbilt 31 LSU 24

No. 14 Vanderbilt 45 Kentucky 17

Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)

No. 1 North Dakota State 59 Tennessee State 3

No. 2 Montana State (see above vs. Oregon)

No. 7 Tennessee Tech 42 SE Missouri St. 23

On Jan. 5, we’ll see No. 2 Montana State play No. 17 Illinois State for the FCS championship in Nashville

Division III

No. 6 Christopher Newport 69 Vermont-Castleton 7

No. 17 Berry College 31 Trinity (TX) 23, Round Three of D-III playoffs

On Jan. 4 No. 1 North Central (ILL) plays No. 3 Wisconsin-River Falls for the D-III championship in Canton, OH.  We won’t be attending.

Even at the D-III level, Berry masters the "Tush-Push." We love the D-III playoff. Forty teams get invited and the championship will be played on January 4. Why can't the FBS learn something from this?
Even at the D-III level, Berry Vikings master its version of the “Tush-Push.” We love the D-III playoff. Forty teams get invited and the championship will be played on January 4. Why can’t the FBS learn something from this?

The meteoric rise and pending fall of Vanderbilt football

Vanderbilt HC Clark Lea won the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award.  We saw his Commodores defeat LSU and Kentucky this season.  Despite his team’s success, we selected three other coaches we watched lead teams this year as finalists. Ahead of him, we chose Frank Cignetti of No. 1 Indiana; Jay Mack of Kennesaw State (from 2-10 to 10-3 CUSA champs in his first season), and Navy HC Brian Newberry (10-2 American Athletic Champs). Unlike all teams they face, the academies do not have the benefit of using NIL funds, and they cannot recruit from the transfer portal. The primary reason for voting this way? 

Though Lea’s Vanderbilt program made great strides again this season to a No. 14 ranking, we attribute this to two key moves.  First came the signing of QB Deigo Pavia into the program.  Second, came the wherewithal to hire Pavia’s OC from New Mexico State, Tim Beck.  We attribute Lea’s success to bring more talent to the program through Pavia.  To make Pavia effective, like at New Mexico State where he achieved success, Beck played major part.  Give Lea credit for bringing in both, but how much could we attribute to his actual coaching capabilities?  

Insults will cause injury to Commodores

Even before Pavia’s insults regarding his public display of being a selfish crybaby coming in second for the Heisman (which we agreed with), how much control did Lea have on making Pavia a successful QB?  Pavia’s antics brought shame to himself, his coach and the entire Vanderbilt football program.  How will this snub impact Lea’s ability to attract other quality players to Vandy in the future?  How do you think other programs will leverage this recruiting against his program? 

Also, will Beck remain at VU now that Pavia no longer plays there?  Not only has Beck brought improvement to the Commodores with his offensive schemes, but he had a great ten-year career as Head Coach prior at D2 Pittsburg State. He achieved an 82-35 record and won a national championship with the Gorillas’ program.  Maybe, his services will be sought from elsewhere. Maybe he’ll be interested, especially as Vandy adjusts without Pavia.  Recently, news came out that Lea’s program flipped a top QB prospect from Georgia.  That claim was refuted by the recruit two days later. Can Lea really keep this program at the level it’s gotten to? With Pavia’s reaction to the Heisman vote, it will make recruiting more difficult as it put his leadership in question.

Catches like this by Vandy TE Nole Spence from Pavia against LSU got us excited about the Commodores' football future. That's on hold now.
Catches like this by Vandy TE Nole Spence from Pavia against LSU got us excited about the Commodores’ football future. That’s on hold now.

Not ready to commit in 2026

From a personal perspective, if that had been the case Vandy had pulled off getting this five-star QB recruit, we considered a season package for Vandy in 2026. Better games closer to home would save money on gas, plane tickets and hotels. SEC powers Ole Miss, Alabama and Tennessee dot the home slate.  Competitive games now?  Not sure at this time. Back to the same old Vandy? We’ll wait and see.

Pavia’s reaction might have cost Vanderbilt’s football future.  Lea is going to have to save it.  Can he do it with his coaching capabilities as well as recruiting for the upcoming season?  From what we just witnessed, not sure if he has the leadership skills to make this happen in 2026.  Maybe he‘ll have to find the next Pavia out there if another exists.  On the other hand, he’ll need to bring a little bit more class this time along with the comparable playing skills.

Farewell to James Franklin

One of the biggest disappointments of the 2025 season came at our one of our top two favorite programs, Penn State. We envisioned the Nittany Lions making it back into the CFP.  Of course, as stated early in the season, we always came into the last five years with trepidations regarding James Franklin at the helm.  Renowned as a recruiter, we still raised concerns about his game day decision-making processes.  We went to the Oregon game with high hopes that he was going to overcome his losing streak against Top 5 teams.  He had to with a road game to Columbus later in the season.

Too much Salesmanship, not enough Coach

Though close in the Lions 30-24 loss to Oregon, our fears based on his 3-0 record prior appeared as we considered.  The three “patsies” he scheduled prior absolved him from any pressures to use his coaching skills in tough situations.  Not only his team, but he personally wasn’t ready to face the challenges U of O would present.  Once again, we and other fans walked away figuring he had to build back up to get a shot at defeating his primary nemesis, Ohio State.  Instead, a week later, winless UCLA without their recently fired, HC DeShaun Foster, dominated the Lions.  Next, Northwestern edged them at home.  This was not supposed to happen. With all the “great talent” Franklin got credit for recruiting, the Lions came into this season a supposed powerhouse.  These teams supposedly couldn’t compete

Penn State defense closes in on Oregon Second team All-American TE Kenyon Sadiq (18) on early drive in the Ducks' 30-24 victory. Penn State's lapse was our biggest disappointment in our 2025 post-season review.
Penn State defense closes in on Oregon Second Team All-American TE Kenyon Sadiq (18) on early drive in the Ducks’ 30-24 victory. Penn State’s lapse is our biggest disappointment in our 2025 post-season report.

From anticipated First to Worst

Rumblings arose that internal dissention among the team was going on inside hallowed halls of the Lasch football facility. Rumors spread regarding disparity among players arose regarding NIL money between the offense and defense.  Assistant HC Terry Smith replaced Franklin in the interim. The search for a future replacement started. AD Pat Kraft thought he had the immediate solution well in hand. He proposed to bring back former PSU star LB and Nebraska HC Matt Rhule who he worked with while at Temple.  That idea inspired no acceptance at all. Terry Smith took over.  The Lions fell to 3-6.  QB Drew Allars fell to injury and left for the season. Unless some pro team shows an interest eventually, regrettably for him, his QB career likely over 

We agreed with the firing of Franklin.  His salesmanship forged his strength.  He not only used it to effectively to recruit, but also to self-promote himself and his accomplishments.  Maybe his recruits weren’t as good as he told everyone.  Maybe his hires of assistants weren’t as strong as he made many believe.  He not only “sold” everyone on his total win-loss record, but he got away with his record against winning programs. He avoided that nonchalantly.  

The Wait had to End

He got compensated highly at Penn State, but Happy Valley sought him since the beginning to raise that program well above mediocrity. After 12 seasons in State College, that is all he could achieve.  The timing of this departure may have come too early in the season. However, based on the results post-Oregon, it was time.  He lost the support of the fan-base, and that is optimal for the stature of Penn State graduates around the world.

Out of nowhere, falling on a Matt

After weeks of considering and losing potentially good candidates over the course of time, the eventual hire of Iowa State’s Matt Campbell seems to be the right fit. At Virginia Tech, Franklin will probably do well.  He’ll get the Hokies back to a level where they will compete in the ACC.  He may even get them into the College Football Playoff.  However, when he comes against top competition on the other sideline, Franklin just has a penchant for not stepping up.  VA Tech may accept that for quite some time.  For Penn State, however, the future is always now.  Always has been, and it’s overdue.  Is Matt Campbell the answer?

He’ll likely lead to start stepping in the right direction.   Mount Union College D-III power grad, a successful coaching career in the MAC, he built solid teams and brought talent to Iowa State that struggled for years with minimal success.  Like another unmentioned candidate we considered, whose name never came up (probably because his primary intent if he leaves his current position focuses on another Big Ten opportunity), a move to Penn State gets him the resources and support that can make him more successful than at his former football school. 

Despite the pressure applied by Memphis, Iowa State QB Rocco Becht threw for 466 yards and three TDs in the 2023 Liberty Bowl. We hate the very loose transfer porta. The way it stands now, however, PSU will be happy if Becht follows Matt Campbell to State College.
Despite the pressure applied by Memphis, Iowa State QB Rocco Becht threw for 466 yards and three TDs in the 2023 Liberty Bowl. We hate the very loose transfer portal. The way it stands now, however, PSU will be happy if Becht follows Matt Campbell to State College.

Win-win strategy in place here

No offense to Iowa State, but the support and budget he will have at PSU gives him the opportunity to improve his capabilities in line with what Penn State desires.  As an important strategy in any relationship, this could be a win-win for Campbell and for Penn State.  We shall see.  Only question is, how much time will Penn State allow him?  Probably not much, but the foundation in State College starts well ahead of what he took over at Toledo and at Iowa State.

With Franklin no longer in charge, Campbell brings optimism back to Penn State that was lacking the past few years despite what Franklin was selling the Blue and White faithful. Happy Valley anticipates football being fun again and more competitive now. Without Ohio State on next season’s schedule, his first big test will probably be facing Michigan in The Big House! Of course, with changes ongoing in Ann Arbor, it’s still Michigan.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

If the Hoosier football team makes it to the Peach Bowl and the CFP, we get to Indiana University's two-time National Dance Team champs, the Red Steppers, perform with the IU Marching band twice!
If the Hoosier football team makes it to the Peach Bowl and the CFP, we get to see Indiana University’s two-time National Dance Team champs, the Red Steppers, perform with the IU Marching band twice!

Game 735: Midshipmen of Navy defeat Cadets of Army in Epic ArmyNavy game, 17-16

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Baltimore, MD – The Cadets of Amy took a 16-10 lead into the second half, but the Midshipmen of Navy scored on a fourth and goal from the eight with 7:32 left to take the win in the 126 meeting between these two fabled rivals.  QB Blake Horvath connected with Navy’s all-time leading receiver, Eli Heidenreich, in the end zone for the win.  The Navy defense held the lead by limiting Army to only one yard on their last four possessions.  Despite Horvath’s game-leading 107 yards rushing on 34 carries, Navy’s “dynamic duo” of Mount Lebanon, PA, Heidenreich and RB Alec Tecza, righted the ship at game’s end for Navy’s victory.

First two series – 26 plays, 150 yards, two TDs

To open the game, Army deferred and the Midshipmen drove 75 yards in 13 plays to take a 7-0 lead on Horvath’s five yard run 7:16 into the game.  Start of a blow-out?  As Lee Corso would say, “Not so fast, my friends.” Cadet fans admitted, they did not think their team (6-6) would keep this game close against the 10-2 Midshipmen.

Cadet QB Cale Hellums mirrored Horvath’s performance. He scored on a three-yard TD run to polish off a 75-yard, 13 -play drive five seconds into the second period.

QB Blake Horvath scores first td for 7-0 Midshipmen lead.
QB Blake Horvath scores first
TD for 7-0 Midshipmen lead.

Army defense in control

The Cadets forced the Mids to punt after a three and-out-from the 28.  Hellums led the team starting from the 24.  They drove all the way to the Navy 8 for a first down.  However, the Mids’ D stiffened. The Cadet Dawson Jones kicked a 20-yard FG to take a 10-7 lead. Navy’s next drive finished with Army DL Jack Bousom (a native of Annapolis, MD) recovering Horvath’s fumble on a pass attempt at the Army 27.

With 20 seconds to play in the half, Hellums connected with Brady Anderson for a 26-yard completion. He took out of bounds to stop the clock. Down to three seconds, Jones booted a successful 45-yard FG to give the US Military Academy an unexpected 13-7 lead going into halftime. Next, President Donald J Trump moved across from the Navy side to the Army side for the second half.

Army PK Dawson Jones boots 45-yard FG to take a 13-7 lead into the locker room at halftime.
Army PK Dawson Jones boots 45-yard FG to take a 13-7 lead into the locker room at halftime.

As I headed to the men’s room for a “pit stop” on a cold day in the 20s, US Secret Service Agents could be seen with “USSS” vests throughout the M&T Stadium concourse.  A friend of Cousin Frank Scarpa, a Guest Game Analyst (GGA), who attended the game with me who Frank spoke to by phone mentioned, at that time, we must’ve been “at the safest place in the world.”

Third quarter not so safe for Midshipmen

After an Army punt, the Mids took their first possession from the 11.  Cadet CB Justin Weaver intercepted a Horvath pass at the 32. It looked as if he had extended the Army lead.  However, a review confirmed his knee hit the ground before racing into the end zone. The Black Knights of the Hudson threatened still to score with good field position. The Midshipmen defense yielded only two yards.  Once again, Jones made good on another field goal.  This time from 48 yards.  Army led, 16-7, at 9:39 in the third.

All-time Navy reception and passing yardage leader Eli Heidenreich picks up first half yards against Army.
All-time Navy reception and passing yardage leader Eli Heidenreich picks up first half yards against Army. Later, his last catch of the day resulted in the game-winning touchdown for the Midshipmen.

Starting from the 25, Horvath put the Midshipmen rolling on offense once again, primarily with his short gains.  At the Army eight, Nathan Kirkwood converted a 21-yard FG to put the Mids within six, 16-10.

Turning point of the game

Navy started the fourth period with the football. Another sack by Bousum set the Mids back ten yards. They forced a punt.  The Cadets took over from their 24.  With a pick-up of one, the next play turned the game around in Navy’s favor.  Hellums rolled right.  From our perch in section 522 with a lot of other fans, he looked like he had a lot a green in front of him for a big gain and a first down.  Instead, he tried to force a pass to his receiver. USNA DB Phillip Hamilton jumped the route and picked it off to give the Midshipmen possession on the 50-yard line. Had Hellums run for big yards, the result of this game may have been much different.

Horvath hand-offs

With 50 yards to go, Army’s defense continued to play tough.  With a second and ten at the 40, Horvath finally handed the ball off to RB Alec Tecza. He got down to the Army 31.  Next play, Horvath picked up two for the first. Tecza followed with a burst for 24 yards for another first at the Army 5. “Where has that been all game?” wondered GGA Phil Colicchio (Rutgers) and myself. Tecza has been a key part of this Navy offense the last few years. He’d get only nine carries of the day for 50 yards. He definitely provides the Mids with a different rushing wrinkle on offense.

Navy FB Alec Tecza charges down to the Army five to set up the game-winning score in the fourth.
Navy FB Alec Tecza charges down to the Army five to set up the game-winning score in the fourth.

More heroics from Tecza. On second-and-goal at the one, Horvath fumble the ball on the exchange from center. An Army defender tried to get it in his grasp; Tecza knocked it away. Heidenreich recovered for Navy on the eight. With fourth and goal, Horvath connected with his favorite target at the back of the end zone to knot the score at 16.  With 6:32 left, Kirkwood converted to give the Midshipmen their first lead of the day.

Not over yet

With a 10-yard penalty against Army among four plays, the Cadets punted back to Navy with 3:52 left and two time-outs remaining. After Army used its final time-out with 2:35 and the two-minute time-out still on the board, Horvath took the ball up the middle. He fumbled the ball into the air with Army looking to recover.  However, a replay indicated the he was down by contact when he captured the ball again.  The Midshipmen needed a first now with a fourth and one at Army’s 41. Tecza picked up the necessary two.  After the mandatory time-out with 1:54 left, Navy went into the victory formation until time expired.  Great,tough, hard-fought game until the end.  There was even a little extracurricular activity before college football’s two greatest rivals settled in for the traditional singing of the alma maters together. Navy sang second. The winners always do!

Tradition: The winners sing second as the Brigade of Midshipmen sing their alma mater, "Navy Blue and Gold" following Army's song.
Tradition: The winners sing second as the Brigade of Midshipmen sing their alma mater, “Navy Blue and Gold” following
Army’s song.

Great weekend in Baltimore area for ArmyNavy

Another GGA attended this game with collegefootballfan.com this week, Dave Hickman.  He, a veteran the 82nd Airbourne, attended with us for his first ever ArmyNavy game. Met others at M&T from the same command and enjoyred the game despite the loss.  Much better than when we attended his alma mater, Illinois, get shellacked by Indiana up in Bloomington earlier this year.  Also, his wife Kalani, always wanted to attend this game.  As the daughter of a US Marine who severed in Viet Nam, ArmyNavy was always on her “bucket list.” Her father and Dave place a wager on this game every year.

Like all of us, she had a great time this weekend. She and Dave joined us for lunch last Friday with our son, Navy Chief Petty Officer Eric, stationed in Arlington, VA.  He appropriately selected the perfect Italian restaurant to start a college football weekend, “Corso’s.” No relation that we know of, but what the heck? Worked for us.

Our Friday night also include a reservation with Frank and Phil at Guiness Open Gate Brewery in Baltimore.  Together, we all stayed at a nice 3-BR VRBO property in Glen Burnie, MD owned by Brad Thrall and his wife. Great location convenient to Guiness, M&T Stadium, Camden Yards, Fort McHenry, or even Annapolis.  Very comfortable and quiet. Easy parking. All of us and my wife, St. Laurie, recommend it.  Check out the information by clicking here if ever interested in a party of 2-6 people in the Baltimore area.

Our VRBO property in Glen Burnie was already decorated for Christmas when we arrived!
Our VRBO property in Glen Burnie was already decorated for the Christmas spirit when we arrived!

One Regret on ArmyNavy 2025

I had hoped to catch up with some of my USNA friends from the class of ’78. However, from our previous experience at this game played in Baltimore in 2016, we knew what a fiasco it was to get through security at M&T when then President-elect Trump attended. Not only did he plan to attend again, and great to see, but the Naval Academy could not provide enough parking spaces to all donors and season ticket holders. Instead, they provided us with info regarding off-site parking garages. From our previous experience, we had limited time and since flying in without food and party accessories, not enough time to plan to meet anyone for a tailgate. So, we improvised.

On our way from the parking garage, our party of six stopped for lunch at Peter’s Pour House on Grant Street. A great neighborhood bar with good food and drink. Fans from both teams dined there. From there, we headed to Pickles Pub on Washington Blvd right next to Camden Yards. Visited there in the past before Orioles games. We lucked out heading into M&T. Not sure exactly where to go, we found an entrance on our walk to the stadium in an alley way on the north side.

Better tailgate planned for 2026

Short line through security. Took us all of ten minutes. Early during the game, we saw one email from one Navy friend, Alden “the Rock” Williams, who was still waiting to get in. After the game that evening at the Ferndale Tavern in Glen Burnie, we met another Navy fan who said it took her two hours to get into the game. Boy, did we luck out! Our pre-game plan out worked with a little luck to get us in for the pre-game festivities. However, we never had time to meet up with USNA friends at a lower level at the further end of M&T. Next year in The Meadowlands makes it much simpler to tailgate together!

Navy Leap Frog Sky Dives parachuted in with the game ball.
Navy Leap Frog Sky Dives parachuted in with the game ball followed by Army’s Golden Knights jump team.
Army Helos performed a flyover as did Navy Jets.
Army Helos performed a flyover as did Navy Jets.
Midshipmen and Cadet "prisoners" (exchange students for a semester) are exchanged before the opening kick-off.
Midshipmen and Cadet “prisoners” (exchange students for a semester) are exchanged before the opening kick-off.

Both teams and Collegefootballfan.com move on to post-season

Army will play Connecticut (9-3) in the Wasabi Fenway Park Bowl on December 27 in Boston.  Navy heads to the AutoZone Liberty Bowl in Memphis on January 2. They’ll clash with former American Athletic foe, Cincinnati (7-5). Collegefootballfan.com regretfully cannot attend that one based on our upcoming post-season travel plans.

This weekend, we’ll take our first Bye week of 2025 for the opportunity to watch all four CFP games on TV Friday night and Saturday.  And of course, Christmas is the following Thursday. It arrives very quickly after we start our season going to games every weekend starting in August. Glad we made it! More time to celebrate!

Big post-season for CFF.com

After our bye week, we stay local for our next game at the Music City Bowl. Illinois (8-4) will tussle with Tennessee (8-4) at Nissan Stadium on December 30.  Illini fans are happy about the visit according to our friend and Illini alum friend, Dave Hickman. He will attend with us.  According to reports on the Internet, Volunteer fans aren’t thrilled. Heck, the Vols didn’t beat a team with a winning record this season including Vanderbilt.  And what the problem? They have the ultimate place to party place right across the bridge on Broadway right before New Year’s Eve. They want to go someplace warm? Have the SEC contract with the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl!

Collegefootballfan.com Games # 737-740

Game 737: Thursday 12 noon EST January 1 Capital One Orange Bowl: No. 4 Texas Tech (12-1) vs. Oregon-James Madison winner

Game 738: Monday 6:30 PM CT January 5 Football Championship Subdivision championship at First Bank Stadium in Nashville. Winner of Illinois State vs. Villanova against winner of Montana vs. Montana State. Both games to be played on December 20. MSU opened our season at Oregon in a 59-13 drubbing. And surprise, surprise – no North Dakota State!

Game 739: Friday 7:30 EST January 9 Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl – Winner of CFP Orange Bowl vs. winner of CFP Rose Bowl

Game 740: Monday January 19 winners of Peach Bowl and Fiesta Bowl play for CFP championship at Hard Rock Stadium at Miami Lakes, Florida. A post-season can’t get any better that this for a fan who insists on being there!

Last-minute Christmas gift: read about our college football history!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 735 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

L-R: Phil, Frank, Yours Truly, Dave and Kalani all cam dress for the 30–40-degree weather. Photo taken by "St. Laurie.
L-R: Phil, Frank, Yours Truly, Dave and Kalani all came dressed for the 30–40-degree weather. Photo taken by “St. Laurie.“

Written, posted, edited and photographed (unless otherwise mentioned) by Stephen Koreivo, Author of Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun and the Ugly and a member of Football Writers Association of America (FWAA).

Game 734: Berry College snuffs Trinity rally to move on in D-III Playoffs

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Mount Berry, GA- The Berry College Vikings (11-1) dominated the Trinity University Tigers (10-2) in the first half of their rematch in this D-III third round playoff battle. In the regular season meeting between these two Southern Athletic foes, Berry defeated Trinity, 29-6, on this same field.  Thanks to two first quarter turnovers, an INT by Trinity and a fumble by Berry, neither team scored on the first period.

They started the second frame in similar fashion. Trinty CB Judson Crockett made a pick in the end zone. The Tigers couldn’t capitalize and punted.  Nate Ryan tiptoed down the right sideline to start Berry at midfield. QB Christian Lewis connected with Josh Rogers for a 24-yard TD pass.  HC Tony Kunczewski decided to go for two, and the call succeeded to lead, 8-0.

Berry College defense put the pressure on Trinity QB Hondo Franklin to shut the Tigers out in the first half.
Berry College defense put the pressure on Trinity QB Hondo Franklin to shut the Tigers out in the first half.

Berry tries to pull away early

Later in the period, Trinity set up to punt from the 35.  The snap sailed over the punter’s head, and he kicked it through the end zone to avoid a Berry recovery.  The illegal kick spotted the Vikings at the one.  Lewis took it over on a “tush push” for the 15-0 lead. A catch and fumble by the Tigers gave the ball back to the Vikings on their 44. 3:03 remained in the first half.  Colby Sikes sped 28 yards down the right sideline to cap the first half scoring.  Berry led, 22-0.

Trinity goes to long ball in the second half

After a stirring performance by the Berry drumline at intermission, Trinity followed with a 75-yard TD drive. Key plays came on long passes to Alejandro Tavarez. They first set up a three-yard TD pass to Chase Ravain by QB Hondo Franklin (28 for 45, 322 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT). Berry responded with a 66-yard drive. Lewis punctuated it with a one-yard plunge for a 28-7 lead.  Trinity blocked to point after and Jaden Powell returned it the length of the field for a margin of 28-9.

Another long pass came when Tavarez (7 catches, 117 yards, 2 TDs) burned the Berry CB on another long pass route to get to the 20. Franklin followed up on another pass to Tavarez for a score from 15 yards out.  A two-point conversion try was muffed. Trintiy trailed, 28-15, going onto the final period of play.

Even at the D-III level, Berry masters the "Tush-Push."
Even at the D-III level, Berry masters the “Tush-Push.”

Fury in the fourth

Trinity drove starting the last period with a third and six at Berry’s 46. This possession got to the 23. On fourth and four, a pass to wide-open Jack Kiser went incomplete. Later, the Tigers regained the ball at the 15. A sack by Dawson Livingston set them back. On fourth and eight from their 17, HC Jerheme Herman decided with time remaining to put him in a position with no choice.  The pass fell incomplete. But wait! A targeting call was reviewed and reversed; Berry took over and settled for Trey Richard’s 30-yard FG.

On the ensuing series, a controversial call kept the Trinity drive alive. On a fourth down, a Berry DB broke up a pass play.  Initially, the same ref as before called for targeting.  Again, the call was reversed.  However, Berry got penalized for a 15-yard roughing call.  It looked like a good solid, legal hit to break up the pass.  It should have been Berry’s ball.  Eventually, Tavarez hauled in a 23-yard TD pass from Franklin. Again, they connected on a two-point conversion to close the score, 31-23, with 2:57 to play.

WR Josh Rogers scored on a 24-yard catch and run for Berry in the second quarter.
WR Josh Rogers scored on a 24-yard catch and run for Berry in the second quarter.

Berry Vikings celebrate greatest victory ever

Trinity pulled off the onsides kick, but an unsportsmanlike call pushed them back to their 32. On a second-down, Franklin overthrew his intended receiver. Tipped, it was intercepted by Chaz Pope on the 38 with 56 seconds to play. The Vikings ending the threat with 56 seconds left and sealed Berry’s greatest win to move on to the quarterfinal round for the first time. 

Surprisingly, they found out that John Carroll (11-1) had pulled a 14-7 upset over perennial D-III power and first-seed Mt. Union.  Berry returns back to Valhalla Stadium against the Blue Steaks in the quarterfinals.  The Division III championship game will be held in Canton, Ohio on Sunday, January 4 at 8 pm EST.

A rarity - this onsides kick was recovered by Trinity (in white).
A rarity – this onsides kick was recovered by Trinity (in white).

We love D-III football, but we only write books about the FBS. Read all about them!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 734 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

In college football, you don't get to play in any greener pastures than here at Valhalla Stadium. On Saturday, John Carroll will be visiting to determine who will be going on into the Final Four of D-III football.
In college football, you don’t get to play in any greener pastures than here at Valhalla Stadium. On Saturday, John Carroll will be visiting to determine who will be going on into the Final Four of D–III football.

Game 733: Kennesaw State holds off Jacksonville State rally to win CUSA title, 19-15

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Jacksonville, AL- In a hard-fought game in a raucous atmosphere, the Kennesaw State Owls defeated the Jacksonville State Gamecocks, 19-12.  With :51 left to play, QB Amari Odom fired an 11-yard pass to Navelle Dean over the middle and into the end zone to go up, 18-15. Britton Williams’ kick put the score out of reach for a field goal conversion, 19-15, and Kennesaw won the Conference USA championship in only its second season in CUSA and in the FBS.

Kennesaw climbs the Mountain

Following a 2-10 record from its inaugural FBS season a year ago, first-year HC Jay Mack coached the Owls to a 10-3 record, 7-1 in conference play.  KSU won the Conference USA championship and now heads to a bowl game.  The Owls avenged their lone conference loss of the season to JSU, 36-25, in this same building. Their first of their other two losses came in their opener, 10-9, against Wake Forest (8-4).  A week later, they fell to now No. 1 Indiana (13-0), 56-9. 

Mack previously served as Offensive Coordinator at Tennessee the last three seasons. Prior, he had 20 more years coaching experience with various staffs at both the pro and collegiate levels.  He did a tremendous job in turning around the beleaguered Owl program in his first year.  As the KSU fans chanted among the 18,142 in attendance all evening, “You don’t want go to war with the Owls, with the Owls.”  Intriguing night.

Kennesaw QB Amari Odom (2) tosses pass to Bennett out in right flat early in first quarter.
Kennesaw QB Amari Odom (2) tosses pass to Bennett out in right flat early in first quarter.

Hard fight right from the start

The teams punted back and forth most of the first period.  Near the end, Kennesaw DB Milon Jones intercepted in the end zone. Heading into the second period, the Owls drove the length of the field with RB Coleman Bennett (17 carries, 82 yards) taking it over from the three to put KSU in the lead, 7-0.  The defenses kept each other out of the end zones the rest of the half.  The Owls stopped the Gamecocks on a fourth down on their 13 for a turnover on downs.  The score remained 7-0 at the half.  The stats stood almost even at this point.  Jacksonville (8-5, 7-1) totaled 143 yards and controlled the clock for 16:16. Kennesaw gained 131 total yards moving the football for 14:44.

JSU defender takes down a Kennesaw receiver hard on an early pass break-up.
JSU defender takes down a Kennesaw receiver hard on an early pass break-up.

Third period – an evenly-fought slugfest

This quarter could not have been more even except for one play.  Kennesaw drove for 11 plays. Their possession resulted with a 38-yard field goal by Williams to extend their lead, 10-0.  Jacksonville also put together an 11-play drive. However, Garrison Rippa misfired on his 35-yard FG attempt.  The Owls started its ensuing series from its 20.  They finished with a second and four at the KSU 26 as the third period expired.

War with Owls in the final period

The Owls got down to the two with a fourth and one. The Gamecocks stopped the Owls, however, to take over on downs on their one-yard line.  Backed up at the half-yard line because of a procedure penalty, the Gamecocks looked to get some breathing room. Bang! The Owls tackled the carrier in the end zone for a safety.  They now led, 12-0.  With the score, it felt like to momentum had finally swung to the Owls.  However, on the ensuing kickoff from the 20, Davis Bryson returned 33 yards until the kicker, Rippa, popped the ball out of his arm. It went high in the air, and CB Jayke Jones recovered to start the Gamecocks again with good field position at the Owls 48.

Kennesaw DL Marcus Patterson (6) applies pressure on JSU QB Caden Creel (12) that kept the Gamecocks scoreless through three quarters.

Gamecocks mount comeback

With 10:20 left in the game, All-CUSA RB Cam Cook (19 carries, 78 yards) finished off the JSU possession with a one-yard scoring run. Trailing now 12-7, a sack by Jacksonville LBs Walker Osteen and Mac Sanders forced Kennesaw to punt from its 17. JSU drove from its 40 to the 19 where QB Caden Creel (18 carries for 112 yards) exploded untouched straight up the middle for a score and a Jacksonville lead of 13-12. Creel tossed a two-point conversion to Deonte Johnson for a 15-12 JSU advantage with 4:04 left to play.

One Gamecock WR cleared the secondary for Creel and then he blazed through the Kennesaw line for a 19-yard TD in the fourth period.
One Gamecock WR cleared the secondary for Creel and then he blazed through the Kennesaw line for a 19-yard TD in the fourth period.

Kennesaw’s fantastic finish

A chop block penalty, a two-yard loss and an incomplete pass gave KSU a third down and 27. Odom connected with Christian Moss (five catches for 75 yards) for 26 yards for a fourth and one.  Next, Bennett picked up three for the first at the JSU 33. Kennesaw followed with a six-yard run, an incompletion and a sack to give them a fourth and four at the 37.  Odom ran for 14 yards, but a penalty for a hit out of bounds gave KSU a new set of downs starting on the 11.  From there, the QB fired a dart down the middle to Moss open in the end zone with :51 left. Final score: Kennesaw State19 Jacksonville State 15.

Defending CUSA champ JSU started it final possession from their 25.  One sack and three incomplete passes later, the Owls took over and went right into victory formation.  Great atmosphere, great game-cheering crowds for both teams, loud and proud sounding bands, and excitement made it an entertaining evening. A great night to see a hard-fought conference championship played on the field.  Jacksonville HC Charles Kelly also did a wonderful job this year taking over at Jacksonville State after Rich Rodriguez headed back to West Virginia.  Radio reports spoke highly of the job he did on short notice with the Gamecocks this season.  This game provided us with a great start to Collegefootballfan.com’s post season slate!

Jacksonville RB Cam Cook (4) leads the nation in rushing with 1,659 yards and has 16 rushing TDs. He averaged 131.75 yards per game. The Owls held him to just 78 in this contest.
Jacksonville RB Cam Cook (4) leads the nation in rushing with 1,659 yards and has 16 rushing TDs. He averaged 131.75 yards per game. The Owls held him to just 78 in this contest.

Game 734: D3 playoff – Berry College 31 Trinity (TX) 23

Look for this update tomorrow for the game played Saturday between Vikings and Tigers.  Big D3 upset this past week that could get the Berry Vikings farther than expected.

As for JSU and KSU, both now go bowling. The Jacksonville State Gamecocks (8-5) literally travel down the road apiece to Montgomery Alabama to take on their sister state university, the Troy Trojans (8-5) of the Sun Belt Conference. “Going to war with the Kennesaw Owls” (10-3) will be the Western Michigan Broncos (9-4, 8-1), champions of the Mid-American Conference. The Broncos defeated the Miami Red Hawks, 23-13, last Saturday for the MAC championship in Detroit. We like this match-up. Should be a very competitive game between two hungry teams.

Week 16 closes out the regular season, and then we go beyond!

After being blanked out of our Army Navy tickets last season, we are back in the fold in 2025.  We will be at M&T in Baltimore next Saturday for the 136th meeting between the two fabled rivals.  Navy (9-2) seeks its second win in a row over Army (6-5).  The Mids fell to North Texas and Notre Dame (without starting QB Blake Horvath). We attended that 49-14 debacle. We also saw them win the first leg of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, 31-28, against Air Force. A lot rides on this game for both teams.  Army also defeated Air Force, 20-17, so the Trophy means everything in this one.  Army won and lost in a lot of close games this season.  This game should be no different. 

For ArmyNavy, this meeting becomes our 20th tussle between these two. This is the first time the two will meet knowing that they received bids for upcoming bowl games.  Army heads to Fenway Park to take on UConn (9-3). On December 27 in Boston, it may feel like they will be playing in the Yukon. Historically, of course, this Saturday’s game will feel similar.  We’ve known it to usually be the coldest weekend of the year whenever these two meet on the gridiron.  Navy will be heading to Memphis for its bowl on January 2, 2026.  In the Liberty Bowl, they will face former AAC foe Cincinnati (7-5), now a member of the Big XII.  Go Navy!

It was definitely a beautiful day to attend a game in Annapolis when we watched them defeat Air Force this season. Hopefully, Navy will show up with their best effort whens we see them play at Notre Dame on November 8.
We look forward to seeing Navy play again. However, the weather will not be as nice against Army this weekend as it was against Air Force in early October!

Check out other historic games we’ve attended over the years. Read all about them!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 734 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

On our 2025 schedule, we look for another fight to the finish between Army and Navy - maybe even two!
On our 2025 schedule, we look for another fight to the finish between Army and Navy!

Game 732: Baugh rambles as Gators devour Seminoles, 40-21

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Gainesville, FL – Added the Florida Gators vs. Florida State Seminoles last minute as Game 732 during Thanksgiving week in the Sunshine State. Think collegefootballfan.com settled for a bye this week just to watch games on TV? No way. This isn’t the rivalry we all remember for its vaunted history in the 80s and 90s, but it remains intense. Our game No. 166 featured No. 1 Florida defeating No. 2 Florida State, 52-20 on January 2, 1997, for the National Championship at New Orleans in the Sugar Bowl.

The Seminoles had already defeated the Gators in the regular season, 24-21. Florida HC Steve Spurrier offset FSU HC Bobby Bowden’s pass rush in the rematch. He had Heisman-winning QB Danny Wuerffel operate from the shotgun to avoid pressure. The result became part of collegefootballfan.com history. Even this past Saturday, enjoyed being in Gainesville first-hand for all the passion and ferocity despite the two rivals struggling this past season. Just wanted you to know, we didn’t stumble and took advantage of this nearby opportunity.

Memorable years of Florida Gator championships adorn the facade at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
Memorable years of Florida Gator championships adorn the facade at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

Gators vs Seminoles 2025

5-6 Florida State’s goal this evening, win and become bowl eligible. 3-8 Florida’s focus: don’t let FSU win and go to a bowl game, no matter what.  90,007 avid fans sold out Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. At the least, you have to figure both teams impacted college football’s playoff format this season. Florida State’s season looked promising opening their season with a surprising 31-17 upset over Alabama. Florida gave notice after a 1-3 start upending high-ranked Texas, 29-21. The loss sends pollsters packing noting that a third loss against a 4-8 program presents a legitimate obstacle allowing the Longhorns into this season’s CFP.

Today’s contest, however, proved rivalries still bring out the best in crowd attendance.  At least the Gator team determined its primary goal to keep the Seminoles at home during bowl season. To do that, a secondary goal needed to get teammate RB Jadan Baugh over the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the season. 

Gators ran Baugh over, around and through Seminoles

Baugh ran the ball four times during the Gators’ first series to put Trey Smack into position to boot a 23-yard FG. Next, the Gators halted the Seminoles at their 22 to take over on downs. Baugh carried three times. Then, QB DJ Lagway led the Gators with a no-huddle passing attack to the FSU five.  He connected with WR J. Michael Sturdivant with a slant pass over the middle for a TD and a 10-0 lead.

The Seminoles started a drive thereafter putting them at the UF 39 to start the second.  With 13:39 left in the period, Thomas Castellanos connected with WR Michahi Danzy for a 13-yard scoring play. With a mix of runs by Baugh and passes by Lagway, the Gators retaliated with a 75-yard scoring drive.  This time Lagway rolled right and tossed a pass into the end zone from nine yards out to TE Tony Livingston to go up, 17-7. 

RB Jadan Baugh rips off yards against the Seminoles for the Gators in first half action.
RB Jadan Baugh rips off yards against the Seminoles for the Gators in first half action.

Turnover time

FSU moved into Florida territory.  The Gators stopped the drive with Bryce Thorton’s sack of Castellanos.  The QB fumbled and Caleb Brown recovered on the Florida 26. What went around came back around quickly, two plays later. Seminole DB Edwin Joseph picked off Lagway and put his offense back in business at the Florida 22. With 1:11 left to play in the half, Castellanos ducked a would-be tackler and ran it in for a TD. The play initiated a lot of feistiness between the two teams after. Two penalties assessed against the Noles set their subsequent kickoff up on their 20. No scoring after that, but still some pushing and shoving among fired -up rivals.  The half ended with the Gators on top, 17-14.  Looked forward to more intensity in the second half.

J. Micaha Sturdivant grabs pass from DJ Lagway for Gators' first TD.
J. Micaha Sturdivant grabs pass from DJ Lagway for Gators’ first TD.

Defenses dominate second half start

The Noles forced a three-and-out following two sacks of Lagway. However, Tommy Doman’s 71-yard punt put FSU back on its 20 following the touchback.  The Seminoles went for a first down with one yard to go at their 40, but the Gators held Castellanos to no gain and took over in FSU territory. Baugh ran for 20 yards and then 14 more.  A facemask penalty put the Gators on the three. The turnover resulted with a three-yard TD pass from Lagway to TE Hayden Hansen. Florida extended its lead, 24-14. 

Later in the period, the Gators took over on their 42. Baugh culminated this drive with his longest run of the day.  He hauled the ball over from 22 yards out on a sweep to the left.  At 31-14, the Gators looked like they controlled the final outcome.

FSU QB Thomas Castellanos sweeps right for four-yard TD to close score to 17-14 in late second period.
FSU QB Thomas Castellanos sweeps right for four-yard TD to close score to 17-14 in late second period.

No Dice for Noles

Early in the fourth, PK Jake Weinberg misfired on a 42-yard FG for FSU.  An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty set the Gators back on their 12. Extracurricular activities continued throughout the game.  However, the penalty did not totally impede the Gator drive.  Trey Smack added to their lead with a 54-yard FG with plenty of room to spare.

The Seminoles hung in to try to come back.  Their ensuing 83-yard drive resulted in a 17-yard scoring pass to WR LaWayne McCoy (6 receptions for 116 yards, TD) to cut the score with 3:07 left.  Their onsides kicks was easily fielded by Florida. The Gators started play again at the Seminole 46.  With a fourth and three at the FSU 12, UF called its final time-out. Showing no mercy to their hated in-state rival, Baugh took it over for his second score.  Smack, recovering from his 54-yard score, missed the PAT.  With a final score of 40-21, Baugh finished the day with 38 of his team’s 42 carries for 266 of Florida’s 272 rushing yards.

Gator fans light up and fire-up before fourth period to the late Tom Petty's hit, I won't back down. Petty was a Gainesville native and Gator fan during his lifetime.
Gator fans light up and fire-up before fourth period to the late Tom Petty’s hit,”No, I won’t back down.” Petty was a Gainesville native and Gator fan during his lifetime.

Future records for Baugh?

His game stats came up short of the 316 yards rushing record set by Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith in 1989 against New Mexico. However, if Baugh, a sophomore, sticks around to play for newly announced Head Coach Jon Sumrall, he may get a few more opportunities to catch up with Smith.  We’ve seen Sumrall coach Troy twice in his two-year career with the Trojans. His team went 23-4 in those two seasons. In his last game as HC before exiting to Tulane, we watched his team defeat Appalachian State 49-23 to win the Sun Belt Championship.

In that game, Troy’s prime RB Kimani Vidal, now with the LA Chargers, exploded for five rushing touchdowns and 233 yards on 26 carries. Since Sumrall’s move to Tulane, the Green Wave record stands at 19-7 the last two seasons. Now, they await a bowl bid or possible CFP bid after the American Athletic title game against North Texas next Saturday. Point is: Sumrall wins wherever he goes, and he builds a team quickly.  Gator fans will love him. Baugh and returning teammates should hang in there and work with him.  Collegefootballfan.com thinks they have a lot to look forward to!

Gators on a John Deere Gater. I got backed over by one of those at another college game in the northeast once. Not sure of the brand, I never saw it coming. Oh, the memories.
Gators on a John Deere Gater. I got backed over by one of those at another college game in the northeast once. Not sure of the brand. I never saw it coming. Oh, the memories.

Week Fourteen leaves these two out, but…

Also, as “Rivalry Week” played out and playoffs started among the non-FBS, our path opened up for two good battles next weekend. On Friday night, Collegefootballfan.com returns to Jacksonville, AL for the Conference USA championship. The JSU Gamecocks (8-4, 7-1) defend their title and host the surprising Kennesaw State Owls (9-3, 7-1). Last year, we watched JSU blast Western Kentucky in the final, 52-12. This year at AmFirst Stadium, they dominated Delaware, a first-year FBS program, 38-25. Last season, we saw Kennesaw defeated twice on their way to a 2-10 season. We saw the Gamecocks decimate the Owls at Kennesaw, 63-24. In 2025, enter new HC Jay Mack with an impressive resume to KSU. In Jacksonville, Kennesaw lost its only CUSA game this year, 36-25. We look for a close, hard-fought game for this year’s title. Should be a good competitive game with the Owls having some added incentive.

The next day for a noon game, we travel 90 minutes away to Mount Berry, Georgia. There, the Berry College Vikings (9-1, 7-0) host Southern Athletic foe Trinity University (TX) (10-1, 6-1). The Vikings defeated the Tigers, 29-6, in regular season play. In round one, Trinity defeated Hardin-Simmons (9-2) of Texas, 34-24. The Vikings had a bye in the first round. The winner of this game will play the winner of perennial D3 power Mount Union (11-0) and upset-minded John Carroll (10-1). Fun game to be enjoyed at D-3 level.

Check out other historic games we’ve attended over the years. Read all about them!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 732 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

Enjoyed watching Florida Gator dance team perform during time-outs.
Enjoyed watching Florida Gator Dance Team perform during time-outs.

Game 731: Diego Pavia leads Commodores to whip Kentucky Wildcats, 45-17

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Nashville, TN – Vanderbilt Commodores QB Diego Pavis passed for 484 yards and five TD passes. His No. 12 Commodores charged out to a 45-3 lead over Kentucky at the end of three periods.  He also added 48 yards and a TD on 15 carries. At the end of the third, Vandy totaled over 500 yards of offense with Pavia leading the attack.

The tough Commodore defense held the Wildcats to less than 100 yards of total offense to that point. With one game remaining against No. 18, archrival Tennessee (8-3, 5-3), No. 12 Vandy remains in the hunt for a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).

All of Music City is fired up for the Commodores

With Country Music recording star Dierks Bentley participating in the pregame VU “Anchor Down” ceremony donning a Pavia “2” jersey, the Dores showed appreciation for Nashville’s support right away.  In front of a 35,000-seat sell-out, the defense forced a quick three-and-out on the Wildcats. Next, the Commodores put three up on the board with Brock Taylor’s 39-yard filed goal. These first two series consumed almost every second of the first period.  After that, Pavia led his team to six touchdowns over their next eight possessions.

Country Music Star Dierks Bentley pays tribute to Diego Pavia wearing his # 2 home jersey during teh Vanderbilt Anchor Down ceremony before kick-off.
Country Music Star Dierks Bentley pays tribute to Diego Pavia wearing his # 2 home jersey during the Vanderbilt Anchor Down ceremony before kick-off.

Two out of three ain’t bad

On two of the next three Commodore series, Pavia connected with WR Tre Richardson. For the first, Richardson made a 17-yard over the shoulder catch to go up, 10-0.  A sack of UK QB Cutter Boley by S Marlen Sewell and LB Nick Rinaldi put Kentucky back on their nine to punt.  The Commodores started their next drive from the 40.  This time, Pavia connected on a swing pass with Richardson on the left. He scored on a 10-yard pass to increase the lead, 17-0.

Only time UK found the other side of the 50 until Q4

Kentucky took advantage of a mishandled snap on a Vanderbilt “wildcat” play on fourth and one. The visitors possession at the Vanderbilt 30. With 1:04 left in the first half, the best Kentucky could come away with was on a 47-yard FG by Jacob Kauwe.  

The Commodore defense never allowed Kentucky QB Cutter Boley and the Wildcats to ever cross the 50-yard line for three quarters while the first team played on the field.
The Commodore defense never allowed Kentucky QB Cutter Boley and the Wildcats to ever cross the 50-yard line for three quarters while the first team played on the field.

Not to waste the time remaining, HC Clark Lea looked to make a statement in this game. He got one.  Three plays later, once again Pavia placed a pass on Richardson’s hip on a fly pattern from 56 yards. It extended the VU lead before halftime, 24-3.  To avert any UK retaliation, Martel Hight picked off a Boley pass to thwart any chance for a Wildcat score.  At the break, the Commodores led the Wildcats in total offense, 303 yards to 81.  Would the rout continue? 

Unusual surprises for Nashville visitors

Prior to the game, Guest Game Analyst Greg Kopazna and I went to The Local, an establishment found not too far from First Bank Stadium. First time revisited since first time here seven years ago. Without a parking space to tailgate nearby, we sought other options to eat and drink for our pre-game fest. Like the first game ever attended here against South Carolina, the majority of the visiting fans packed the bar.  Many Wildcat fans proceeded ahead of us to the address we walked to. Outside seating hosted primarily hungry fans wearing royal blue and white.  It seems to be a location well knowns by visitors from other schools.  They have probably frequented this place for years after years of victories.

 It hales a short walk to the stadium.  Unlike previous seasons, however, the visiting team fans have learned that this spot no longer launches their team on to easily won victory parties to be celebrated later in down on Broadway. Later, the Kentucky Wildcat fans found little to cheer about in recently refurbished First Bank Stadium.

The Commodores' football success has brought a lot of positive energy into FirstBank Stadium this season.
The Commodores’ football success has brought a lot of positive energy into FirstBank Stadium this season.

2025 Commodores sweep up in Nashville

This season became the first since 1982 when the Commodores won every home game. This victory established a new mark at 7-0. Since 1945, today Vanderbilt recorded only its fourth undefeated season at home. With such success, maybe more Dore’s fans will be frequenting and filling The Local with their team’s improvement.  It beckons to us locals as a place that we’ll have to try out during the offseason.  Could be another venue to enjoy the nightly music scene in Nashville.

A ”perfect” third quarter for Commodores

The Commodores remained relentless in the third period.  No team can do any better than this. They scored touchdowns on all three possessions. The defense ousted the Kentucky offense with three-and-outs both times they had the ball.  Commodore scores came on drives of 75 yards (twice) and 69 yards. The first TD resulted with Pavia’s seven-yard pass to WR Junior Sherrill. Next came on a six-yard run by Pavia. Lastly, a 32-yard pass came on a leaping grab. With arms extended by WR Richie Hoskins at the goal Iine, he scored with a defender grabbing his arms.

Commodore football success and excitement start right here with No. 2, quarterback Diego Pavia.
Commodore football success and excitement start right here with No. 2, quarterback Diego Pavia.

Commodore QB of the future?

In the fourth, Pavia started the next series to break the Vanderbilt record for 484 passing yards.  He exited the game to the cheers of the Vanderbilt faithful. Junior Blaze Berlowitz replaced him.  He completed four of five passes for 55 yards and picked up eight yards on two carries.  Will he be the replacement for Pavia next season? He looks promising based on the little bit we watched him perform.

Closing out the victory

Kentucky scored twice to close out the scoring and pad some stats as Clark Lea substituted non-starters for the balance of the game.  Smart move with the opportunity facing the Commodores next week when they head to Knoxville. The stands of Neyland Stadium filled with Orange-clad Volunteers fans will be fired up for this one. Will the Commodores leave unscathed for CFP consideration?

Tennessee will be challenged by a tough Commodore defense. Twelve players made either four or three tackles in this game. LB Bryce Cowan (22) played his part among a balanced Vanderbilt defense.
Tennessee will be challenged by a tough Commodore defense. Twelve players made either four or three tackles in this game. LB Bryce Cowan (22) played his part among a balanced Vanderbilt defense.

Week Fourteen – Big Games and CFF game to yet be determined

Vanderbilt at UT as mentioned for pride, bowl games and a possible CFP bid.  Kentucky takes their 5-6, 2-6 record to face traditional rival Louisville, 7-4, at the Cardinals’ L&N Stadium.  The Cardinals enter this rivalry on a 3-game losing streak.  They come off a 38-6 loss to SMU. Can the Wildcats continue the trend to gain a bowl bid of their own with a sixth win?

As for collegefootballfan.com, we’ve decided to forgo Rice at South Florida since the game provides no real interest regarding the post season coming up.  We may consider going to the Florida vs. Florda State game in Gainesville since we’ll be spending Thanksgiving in the Sunshine State.  Catch up with us here in a few days. We still have one regular season game on our slate – Army vs. Navy on December 13.

CFF plans underway all the way through January 19, 2026

Before and after Army-Navy, we have plans to be finalized for other playoffs at all Division levels. Several CFP opportunities we’ve committed to already – the Capital One Orange Bowl CFP on January 1 and the CFP National Championship game on January 19.  Finally, we’re in!

Still kicking around some other options not knowing exact teams, times and places, but we’re piecing together the best of what we can and would like to see.  At best, we will offer our tentative plans subject to change as certain opportunities come and go. Check us out here on Thanksgiving Day after enjoying your turkey, stuffing, desserts and whatever football you plan to watch on TV that day (for us: Navy at Memphis in the evening for sure, among other traditional games college and pro). Hope to be attending some entertaining game next Saturday.  Two games penciled in for the following weekend on December 5-6: the ConferenceUSA championship supposedly in Jacksonville, Alabama. Next day, a D3 or FCS game, either will probably be played in Georgia. After Army-Navy, we’ll be flexible to roll with the brackets and select bowl committees.

Jacksonville State defeated Western Kentucky last season in their title game to win the C-USA championship. Will they do it again this season without HC Rich Rodrigues who moved on to West Virginia? Will Delaware step right in to compete for the C-USA title this year? We'll be at Burgess-Snow Filed to find out.
Jacksonville State defeated Western Kentucky last season in their title game to win the C-USA championship. Will they meet again this season? We’ll be at Burgess-Snow Field to find out.

Check out all FBS team histories including Vanderbilt. Read all about them!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 731 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

It would be great to see Vanderbilt find its way into the CFP this season. Who could have ever imagined that among all the SEC teams expected, the Commodores were never considered among that mix.
It would be great to see Vanderbilt find its way into the CFP this season. Who could have ever imagined that among all the SEC teams expected, the Commodores were never considered among that mix.

Game 730: Wake Forest knocks Tar off of UNC Heels, 28-12

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Winston-Salem, NC – Two long touchdowns by WR Carlos Hernandez and a bend-but-don’t break Demon Deacon defense highlighted the Wake Forest win over North Carolina and former Super Bowl HC Bill Belichick, 28-12. In an interview during the week, pundits pushed Belichick on the possibility of him leaving UNC to coach the New York Giants.  His reply to that, “The only team I’m focused on this week is Wake Forest.” 

To this, our friend, host and die-hard Demon Deacon alum, Jim “Bugaluga” Harton responded, “No one has ever been quoted saying that about Wake Forest!” Indicates the rep the Demon Deacs have risen up to since Jim’s WFU days back in the’70s.  And he’s proud of it.

On top of Military Appreciation Day, Wake Forest honored baseball alum Nick Kurtz this evening. Kurtz won the American League Rookie of the Year for 2025 as a member of the Oakland A's.
On top of Military Appreciation Day, Wake Forest honored baseball alum Nick Kurtz this evening. Kurtz won the American League Rookie of the Year for 2025 as a member of the Oakland A’s.

32,390 on hand for Military Appreciation

The Deacons scored one TD in each quarter. UNC scored with four FGs by Rece Verhoff.  However, two of his other attempts by were blocked by the tough Wake specialty team. Of course, Jim’s former WFU roommate, celebrating Military Appreciation Night as a retired Army officer of 30+ years, Jay Yuengling, took credit for both blocks as claims, “he called them.”  Flyovers and military marches paid tribute to the veterans in attendance. Medal of Honor Award winner Kyle White and his family were honored for his heroism in 2007 during Operation Enduring Freedom.  He will enter the Wake Forest Executive MBA program.

Wake Forest turns mistake into points

On the Deacons first possession, QB Robby Ashford (who we’d seen at Auburn two years ago) fumbled the ball on his carry near midfield. Swift WR Carlos Hernandez (six catches,100 yards, two TDs) scooped the ball off the turf and raced down field to take the ball in for a 51-yard score. Carolina went on the attack from the 25.  They drove to the Wake 24 for a first down as the first period ended. 

RB Demond Claiborne (1) rushes 12 yards up the middle for a Wake Forest lead, 14-3.
Wake Forest RB Demond Claiborne (1) rushes 12 yards up the middle for a Wake Forest lead, 14-3.

Second quarter action

The Deac defense held their ground, and an illegal motion penalty against UNC forced a field goal.  Verhoff made good on a 40-yarder to close the score, 7-3.  Later in the period, a UNC punt put Wake Forest on their 11.  RB Demond Claiborne fumbled and LB Khmori House recovered to put the Heels at the Wake Forest 31.  Not only did the Deacs hold UNC to another FG attempt from the 39, they blocked it! Wake Forest took over on their 21.

Wake HC Jake Dickert, first year here after leaving Washington State, called for his team to focus on the ground attack.  From what we’d seen so far, Ashford struggled with accuracy in the passing game. He finished with 15 of 25 attempts for 191 yards. Most on his incompletion’s went low to his intended receivers. Many completions came on tough catches.

“Wheels” in motion

 On the other hand, our prime Guest Game Analyst (GGA), Wake Forest grad Benny (her father wanted a boy), friend of Jim’s and known to her WFU classmates as “Wheels”, was frustrated by her team’s play calling. She noted the offense ran the same running play up the middle to start every possession. 

To her surprise, this time, the Deacs started with a pass. After that, they went primarily to the ground game.  Eventually, Wake Forest out-rushed North Carolina 223 yards to 56 in the end. At the UNC 12, Claiborne went right up the middle for a touchdown run to take a 14-3 lead with 1:47 left in the second.  Belichick’s Heels started from the 25. With 0:03 left, Verhoff booted a 57-yard FG.  Jay Yuengling should have said something.  Wake led 14-6 heading into the half. They would kick off to start the second.

UNC kicker Rece Verhoff (90) nails a 57-yard FG as first half ends.
UNC kicker Rece Verhoff (90) nails a 57-yard FG as first half ends.

“Wheels” was right!

The Deacs defense forced a three and out on the Tar Heels’ opening possession.  They took over from their 33 and drove to the UNC 24.  On a fourth and two. Dickert decided to go for the first. Wheels said aloud, ”Kick it.  We can’t get one yard. Why do we expect to get two?” She called for a field goal. Her Deacs gave the ball up over on downs.  Once again, the Deacs halted the Heels next drive to a fourth and eight at the 24.  Verhoff put the ball up from 42 this time. They trailed now, 14-9.

Wake Forest answers fast!

It didn’t take long. After a five-yard run by Claiborne, Ashford connected with Hernandez to his right. He weaved, dodged and broke past UNC defenders for a 70-yard catch and run TD. He extended the lead to two scores, 21-9.

 North Carolina started its next series from the 25. They proceeded all the way to the Wake Forest 18.  There, DL Nuer Gatkouth sacked QB Gio Lopez for seven yards to force another Verhoff FG.  Yuengling says he called for it again. Matteen Ibirogba blocked this one. Wake Forest led, 21-9, heading into the fourth.

Wake Forest DL Nuer Gatkouth sacks QB Gio Lopez to set up for a field goal. The Deacons blocked their second field goal attempt of the evening.
Seven on seven: Wake Forest DL Nuer Gatkouth (7) sacks QB Gio Lopez (7) to set up for a field goal. The Deacons blocked their second field goal attempt of the evening.

Wake Forest TDs beat UNC FGs every period

Verhoff got to launch a 47-yard FG successfully with 11:03 left to narrow Wake’s lead.  With 5:16 remaining to play, Wake stuck strictly with the run. Belichick had to use his three time-outs hoping his team would get the ball back. With 0:22 left, Ashby ran it around right end from the two to finalize the score, 28-12.  

For Dickert, it was his first coaching win over another FBS team from North Carolina.  Wake Forest’s record now stands at 7-3, 4-3. Carolina fell to 4-6, 2-4 in the ACC.

Playoffs? Super Bowl? Bill Belichick still trying to figure out get his UINC team to a bowl game this year.
Playoffs? Super Bowl? Bill Belichick still trying to figure out how to get his UNC team into a bowl game this year.

Update the Wake Forest nickname

With this our 15th Wake Forest game attended since 1980, the Deacons won for the 13th time! This record impresses many Demon Deacon stalwarts. For this win, I’m now known among them as “Thirteen and Almost Oh Koreivo!” I feel honored! Of course, with seven wins this season, the Deacs will be bowling in the post-season.  They look forward to going, but in all cases, all their die-hards agree – they hope it’s somewhere warm!

A Collegefootballfan.com first: attended games with parents of players and band members in the past. Tonight, we sat with proud Wake Forest alumni and fans, Chip and Carol Holden. Their granddaughter is a member of the Wake Dance team. She dances on the left with her Deacon Dance line in their pregame routine.
A Collegefootballfan.com first: attended games with parents of players and band members in the past. Tonight, we sat with proud Wake Forest alumni and fans, Chip and Carol Holden. Their granddaughter is a member of the Wake Dance team. She dances on the left with her Deacon Dance line in their pregame routine.

For WEEK Thirteen and beyond

Wake Forest hosts FBS newcomer Delaware (5-5) of Conference USA next Saturday. They finish at Duke in an ACC clash to finish the regular season.  Dickert gets a chance to defeat another in-state Carolina rival.

The Tar Heels will host Duke next week and finish at NC State.  Belichick’s squad need to win both for bowl eligibility.  That doesn’t mean the Super Bowl, of course.

We at Collegefootballfan.com take a short drive this week to downtown Nashville after road trips the last three weeks to Arkansas, Notre Dame and Wake Forest.  We’ll see No. 12 Vanderbilt (8-2, 4-2) host Kentucky (5-5, 2-5) in an SEC bout to stay on course for a hopeful CFP bid. No. 20 Tennessee (7-3, 4-3) looms the following week in Knoxville.  

Speaking of Wake Forest and all FBS team histories, Read all about ours!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 730 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

The entire Wake Forest Demon Deacon Dance Line strikes a pose.
The entire Wake Forest Demon Deacon Dance Line strikes a pose.

Game 729: Notre Dame blows past Navy in the second, 49-10

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South Bend, IN – No. 9 Notre Dame led Navy at halftime, 21-10, but like the cold, snowy wind that came through, the Fighting Irish blew out the Midshipmen, 49-10 in the second half. The writing seemed to be on the wall at the start. Navy QB Blake Horvath came out for the coin flip without pads nor helmet.  He keys the offense running their dynamic option/run-pass option on the field.  Irish QB C.J. Carr dominated through the air with 218 yards and three TDs.  Horvath’s replacement, Braxton Woodson, made his first start since the 2023 season. We saw him then lead Navy to a 14-0 victory over Charlotte.  Of course, Notre Dame poses a different animal.

 All-American RB candidate Jeremiyah Love scored on a one-yard run to cap a 94-yard drive to start the scoring in the first period.  Navy (7-2, 5-1) countered in the second with a two-yard TD run.  After that, the Irish scored on two drives with Jadarian Price running in from the two. WR Jordan Faison caught a five-yard TD pass to put Notre Dame up, 21-7.  The Mids closed the score, 21-10, with 15 seconds to play in the half with Nathan Kirkwood’s 33-yard FG.  All the while, a soaking rain came down. By halftime the rain drops turned into snowflakes.  The crowd of 76.622 became soggier and got colder.

Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love finds running room among his 94 yards gained on the day.
Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love finds running room among his 94 yards gained on the day.

Irish Sweepstakes in second half

On Notre Dame’s first possession in the third, on first and ten at the USNA 48 Navy took Love down. However, but he never touched bottom. He rolled over a tackler, bounced up on his feet and sped all the way to the end zone for a sudden, 28-10, lead. Desperate to stay in the game, Navy went for first on fourth and two from their 33.  Woodson came up a yard short.  On one long pass over the middle against a slower secondary, Carr struck KK Smith in the end zone to widen the lead, 35-10. More of the same followed.

Navy went three-and-out and12 yards back, before punting from their 13. With no-huddles and from the shotgun, Notre Dame scored in six plays on a 49-yard drive before the third ended.  Carr connected with TE Ty Washington for a four-yard score. The Fighting Irish dominated.

Love on a long gainer to put Notre Dame into navy territory.
Love on a long gainer to put Notre Dame into Navy territory.

Notre Dame follows through to finish

The snow swirled, the wind blew harder, and the stands started to empty. Our group decided enough was enough.  We had to catch a shuttle back to our tailgate lot and hit the slushy road back to our VRBO in Goshen- about a 40-minute ride. 

After we left, QB Kenny Minchey stepped in for Carr.  The Sophomore lives near some of us who came up from Middle Tennessee where he quarterbacked nearby Pope John Paul 2 High School in Hendersonville. He led the Irish on a nine-play, 93-yard drive capped by Aneyas Williams’ 54-yard TD run.  Final score, Notre Dame 49 Navy 10.  We had hoped that the Mids would have put on a better showing than they had last year. Rather difficult when basically millionaire athletes compete against government employees who haven’t gotten a paycheck since the shutdown.  Quite challenging even if the government didn’t shut down this year.  Next year, these two will meet again in Foxboro, Massachusetts.

Not only were Irish Eyes smiling, they had much to smile about on a cold, rainy-turn-to-snow evening.
Not only were Irish Eyes smiling, they had much to smile about on a cold, rainy-turn-to-snow evening.

At least our tailgate was great!

We attended and tailgated with friends who visited South Bend to see a Notre Dame game here on campus for the first time and some who had attended with us before. Afterward on Facebook, Will Bresznyak admitted a game at ND was on his “bucket list.” Traveling from Tennessee (originally from Brooklyn, NY) he drove up with some of our other Brother Knights of Coumbus from Lebanon, TN: Ed Conrads (also an original Jersey guy) and Scott Schell, our Grand Knight. Both also visited Notre Dame for the first time. Scott is one of the best BBQ-ers we’ve gotten to know since moving to Tennessee. He brought venison burgers and did his masterful grilling for all of us in the Blue Lot.

Also joining us from New Jersey came Les Di Vite, Bell Serafin and Steve Cielsa. All had attended Notre Dame with us for games here before. Also, they’ve tailgated with us in Annapolis and at several ArmyNavy venues. On Friday, we toured the campus – the Grotto, the bookstore, the stadium, admin building and even the Notre Dame Knights of Columbus Council 1477 Hall. Disappointed to see artwork with Christopher Columbus covered up though the tapestries were supposed to be removed per the schedule noted nearby. We also met up with Bill’s son Stephen who received his master’s degree here and Bill’s two grandchildren. As traditionally provided by Bill at the tailgates or Polar Bear Plunges for Special Olympics, he brought Jameson for the pregame party.

On our campus tour on a beautiful day on Friday, we visited the Grotto. Bill takes a knee to say a prayer before we headed to the Linebacker Lounge soon after.
On our campus tour on a beautiful day on Friday, we visited the Grotto. Bill takes a knee to say a prayer before we headed to the Linebacker Lounge soon after.

First time for all of us in Goshen, Indiana: convenient to visit Notre Dame

Les’s brother, Al, traveled up joining us from North Carolina where he’s retired. He stays busy training and keeping horses, mules and donkeys. However, he was very confused. He thought the Navy mascot was a mule. He had to be straightened out. First time here for Al, who subscribes and follows Notre Dame Blue and Gold religiously. Mike, another friend of Bill’s, enjoyed his experience in the land of the Irish as well. Frank Rafferty who coached our sons and other kids with me for many years in baseball in Byram Twp. NJ, came along for the first time. In the past, I’d have to send him pictures or video of the Notre Dame band. That’s his favorite. He also got to come up with his brother earlier this season for his first time at the Purdue game.

The first time we all got together, we met at The Linebacker Lounge, adjacent to the ND campus. A visit there became a tradition there many years ago when we first went. All had a great time at our VRBO in Goshen about 40 minutes from South Bend. We enjoyed favorite foods, snacks, a pretty good Mexican restaurant nearby (El Zocado), a coffee shop-bakery (Chocolatte) and watching pro and college games in the evenings. Some heard loud train freight horns not far from us overnight – but not all of us. Good time with a great bunch of guys, many meeting for the first time, for a memorable football weekend at Notre Dame.

We Collegefootballfan.com Tailgaters celebrated together before the rains came in the Blue Lot at Notre Dame.
“Under the cold, gray November skies” (to paraphrase the late, great sportswriter Grantland Rice), Collegefootballfan.com Tailgaters celebrated together before the rains came in the Blue Lot at Notre Dame.

Coming up in WEEK Twelve

Notre Dame visits No. 24 Pitt (7-2, 5-1) for a noon start Saturday. Only two more ACC foes await the Fighting Irish after – Syracuse (3-7, 1-6) and Stanford (2-5, 1-6). We plan to get to a few College Football Playoff (CFP) games. The Irish have a good shot. We may see them again.

Navy returns for a tough home match against No. 25 South Florida (7-2. 4-1). The Bulls and then a road trip to play Memphis (8-2, 4-2) on Thanksgiving Day evening lie ahead for the Mids.  If Horvath returns healthy, they will welcome the senior back for a shot at the American Conference Championship.  Two wins by Navy here may get them into the AAC title game, but other teams with one conference loss each – Tulane, North Texas and East Carolina – will all have some influence regarding that title game. We may go depending on travel options for Friday, December 5. We will definitely see the Mids again when they clash with Archrival Army in Baltimore on December 13 in Baltimore for their 126th meeting.

Oh, on to Wake Forest!!

We head to Wake Forest to our annual event with our Demon Deacon friend, Jim “Bugaluga” Harton.  With he and his fellow Demon Deacon Alum, we’ll be cheering against the UNC Tar Heels against first-year HC Bill Belichick.  He’s mainly the reason we requested to attend this one.  In our long history, the Deacs stand at 12-2 in our presence.  They stood undefeated in our presence up until a late 62-59 loss in 2019 to Louisville and Lamar Jackson. 

At that game, my Wake Forest nickname changed from “10 and Oh Koreivo” to “10 and almost Oh.” When I first met these Deacon fanatics, all with designated nicknames since their college days over 40 years ago, they could not believe anyone had seen their alma mater play eight games and win them all! “Nobody has ever done that,” they all insisted. Thus, my WFU moniker bestowed upon me became “Eight and Oh Koreivo.” They are still impressed with the record despite the two recent losses.

In 2023, Florida State finally dominated them to stall my record at 11-2.  Seeing a win over NC A&T last year provided win No. 12 (hey, all the Power Fives do it!).  With Belichick, a win here would be more rewarding as “13 and almost Oh” for this celebrated part of our history. Go Deacs!

At Notre Dame, this statue of Moses next to the Theodore Hesburgh Library is called "First down Moses." To CFF.com, he's saying, "On to Wake Forest!"
At Notre Dame, this statue of Moses next to the Theodore Hesburgh Library is called “First down Moses.” To CFF.com, he’s saying, “On to Wake Forest!”

Speaking of things no one else has ever done before! Read all about it!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 729 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

Can't visit Notre Dame without taking a picture of "Touchdown Jesus!"
Can’t visit Notre Dame without taking a picture of “Touchdown Jesus!”

Game 728: Late Mississippi State comeback topples Arkansas who racks up 193 penalty yards

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Fayetteville, AR- The Mississippi State Bulldogs trailed Arkansas, 35-21, with 13:43 left in the game. On fourth and three at the Arkansas 18, Blake Shapen connected with Antony Evans III with :43 left to play. MSU scored to take home the win, 38-35. For Mississippi State, the result ended a four-game losing streak. They slammed the brakes on a 16-game SEC losing skid dating back to 2023. Despite the dramatics, collegefootballfan.com and many partisan Arkansas fans took umbrage to some of the 18 penalties for 193 yards against the Razorbacks.  To put that total into perspective, Arkansas QB Taylen Green threw for 194 yards in this game (19 of 31 and one TD).

Tough calls to begin with

Several subjective calls came against the Hogs for supposedly flagrant violations. Could not agree on all counts. There are egregious, uncalled for hits. There are also collisions of impact occurring at a moment’s notice based on momentum and a high-rate speed. Trying to halt some of these collisions are not only unavoidable by nature, but dangerous to the aggressor if halted as well as to the target.  We’ve questioned the same at other games. Today, there were more of these in an intense atmosphere between two conference foes competing to 0-4 conference records. 

The rules should be further assessed by the NCAA.  Of course, making these calls more subjective could cause even more controversies.  On the other hand, in this game Mississippi State surrendered 30 yards on only four penalties. Not saying they should have received more, but penalties definitely made a difference in this game. 

In this country, only one school prides itself with this monicker!
In this country, only one school prides itself with this monicker!

Mississippi State scores early; Arkansas often

Mississippi State took the early lead on and eight -yard TD pass from Blake Shapen to RB Davon Booth for his only reception of the day.  The score remained 7-0 going into the second period. At this point, we realized we get around. This wasn’t our first rodeo seeing Shapen at QB.  In November 2022, he led Baylor against Texas when we saw those two play in Austin. 

At 1:17 into the second, Green tossed a three-yard TD pass to TE Rohan James for his only catch of the day to knot the score, 7-7. Later in the period, Arkansas RB Mike Washington converted a on a fourth down and four to keep a Razorback drive alive at the Arkansas 42.  The drive resulted in a 42-yard FG by Frosh PK Scott Starczyk. On the next Razorback possession. On a fourth and one, Green connected with Washington for a 14-yard gain for the first.  With 0:01 on the clock Starcyk connected for a 30-yarder to take the home team into halftime with a 13-7 lead.  Washington led all in rushing this day with 119 yards and a TD on 19 carries.

Mississippi State's Davon Booth makes his way into the end zone for the Bulldogs' early lead.
Mississippi State’s Davon Booth makes his way into the end zone for the Bulldogs’ early lead.

Offenses take off in second half

The Bulldogs went right to work to start the second half from their 25. They started off appropriately with 15 more yards on a roughing penalty. Shapen left the game and Freshman Kamario Taylor stepped in and didn’t miss a beat. On second and eight at the Arkansas 45, Taylor connected with Anthony Evans III for a TD. It took three PAT attempts for Kyle Ferrie to make it good after two offside calls against Arkansas. The Razorbacks blocked his first attempt.

Starting from the 25, the Arkansas offense went to work. Washington performed the brunt of the work to get to the MSU 45.  Green took over from there with a few completions and a run to get to the Bulldog eight.  In a beautiful fake hand-off, he whirled and took it eight yards into the end zone for a 20-14 Razorback lead.

evens the score in the second as the shadows star to overtake the field at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
TE Rohan James evens the score in the second as the shadows star to overtake the field at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

Mississippi State sputters; Arkansas thrives

With Taylor still under center, the Bulldogs got down to the Razorback 39. On fourth and seven, MSU HC Mike Lebby decided to go for the first. However, Taylor’s pass went incomplete.  Arkansas took over from there. Raylen Sharp burst for 41 yards on the handoff to the Mississippi State 20. Next play, Washington went the distance and the Hogs extended their lead. Interim and former Arkansas HC Bobby Petrino called for the two-point conversion.  Green passed for two to lead. 28-14, with 6:18 left in the third.

Arkansas penalties galore

Two consecutive unsportsmanlike penalties against Arkansas’s CJ Brown went for five yards and then half the distance. It forced the Hogs to kick off from their ten.  On the return, the runner went out of bounds at the MSU 45.  This is where the hit out of bounds looked basically inconsequential from this view high above Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.  The returner still stood after he bounced off a couple of Razorbacks along the sideline. However,  the referees spotted the ball at the Arkansas 45.    

Some confusing calls and a targeting call that was eventually overturned after much discussion, put MSU at the Arkansas 15. They lost five yards on a pass play to set up for second and 15 at the Arkansas 20.  Taylor ran it right up the gut for a 20-yard score. Even the post-game play-by-play seems very confusing regarding this series.

Arkansas RB Mike Washington rambles 20 yards for a TD to give the The Hogs a two-touchdown advantage in the third.
Arkansas RB Mike Washington rambles 20 yards for a TD to give The Hogs a two-touchdown advantage in the third.

Mississippi State about to fade?

In the final minutes of the third, Arkansas punted back after it’s next series. On the return, the Razorbacks got called for a facemask. State started from its 37. A pass tipped by the Arkansas secondary ended up in the hands of DB Jordan Young. It put U of A back in business at the MSU 41. The Hogs had second and 10 at the Bulldog 15.  With 13:43 left, Arkansas extended the lead back to 14 with Raylen Russell’s two-yard run.

Further into the fuzzy fourth

Shapen returned at QB.  A sack by DT Quincy Rhodes Jr. gave Mississippi State a second and 20 from their 38. Next play, Shapen connected with Anthony Evans for a 33-yard pass.  A flag flew against Razorback LB Xavier Sorey Jr. He was in the action of making a sack before hitting Shapen just after he released the football.  This was one of those bang-bang calls where a defender can’t stop a natural football move.  They tacked on 15 more yards for roughing.  Mississippi State had a first down at the Arkansas 14.  Pass interference placed MSU on the two.  Davon Booth took it through the middle for a score to make it, 35-28.

Arkansas punted away and Mississippi State started from its 29. On this drive, Rhodes Jr. slammed Booth to the ground after a five-yard loss that was no doubt a roughing call.  The Bulldogs continued down to the Razorback 33. Ferrie’s kick went wide let with a little over five minutes left.  But wait! Flag! Arkansas ran into the kicker – five yards.  With 5:07 on the clock, Ferrie converted a 46-yard field goal to close the gap, 35-31.

Mississippi State vs. Arkansas: Fight for 1-4 or 0-5

Starting from the 25, Arkansas looked like they could make a go of it when Green picked up 13 yards on second and three. Nope. Holding call – 10 yards back.  Punted on fourth and nine from the 26.  Mississippi State took over on their 31.

A 32-yard pass from Shapen to Thompson put MSU at the 34 as they came to the two-minute time-out (at least still one too many clock stoppages in a college football game). On third and four at the Arkansas 18, DB Kani Walker broke up a Shapen pass – no flags!  On fourth down with :51 left to play, Shapen hit Evans on the right and he raced to paydirt for the score.  Ferrie put up the extra point with :43 left to play.  A short completion followed by a sack an incomplete and a sack stalled Arkansas at their 22. Game over. Mississippi State wins, 38-35! Mississippi State takes home a 5-4, 1-4 record back to Starkville.  Arkansas fell to 2-7, 0-5. The Razorback players and interim HC Bobby Petrino all wonder where they go from here.

Mississippi State QB Blake Shapen (2) scrambles for a gain on the Bulldogs' final touchdown drive.
Mississippi State QB Blake Shapen (2) scrambles for a gain on the Bulldogs’ final touchdown drive.

WEEK Eleven coming up!

Despite the win to get the Bulldogs within one game remaining to be won to become bowl eligible, the going for Mississippi State only gets tougher.  Three ranked SEC teams loom ahead – No 5 Georgia at home, No. 19 Missouri on the road, and No. 7 archrival Ole Miss in The Egg Bowl back in Starkville.  Not much better for Arkansas – at LSU without Brian Kelly, at No. 13 Texas, and back here for No. 19 Mizzou.

Hopefully, Navy was caught looking ahead

We travel to South Bend, IN to see No. 10 Notre Dame (6-2) host Navy (7-1, 5-1).  The Mids lost their first game of the season last Saturday to American Athletic foe North Texas State (8-1-4-1), 31-17.  Looking for respectability to win a big game, Navy could only hope to give the Irish a challenge this season.  This week is their one and only chance.  Looking forward to a fun time otherwise with a good bunch of guys from over the years for our 729th college football game!  In our history, the Irish lead this series over the Naval Academy, 8-1. We say, “Go Navy!”

No one else can claim to have done this before! Read all about it!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure having now seen all 136 FBS teams play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Bowls and play-off game lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

Collegefootballfan.com: Fast football times in Tennessee

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Lebanon, TN – Now that in our fifth football season located here in Middle Tennessee, we have to say that we made a great move to follow what’s going on a few hours mostly west of the Smokies.  Some unexpected turns both better and for worse. However, it’s allowed us to keep a finger on the pulse of Tennessee college football not only regarding nearby FBS and FCS programs. We also follow more on the happenings of regarding Power Fours and more Groups of Five teams.  We have some of each within a day’s travel distance.

Of course, the biggest surprise came with the rise of Vanderbilt football.  We didn’t expect to acquire any great interest to see much going on with what we always considered VU the “doormat of SEC football.”  Well, times changed since we relocated.  Close to Nashville, Vanderbilt stirs the interest not only around Tennessee, but throughout the country.  And LSU fans I met at their game at FirstBank Stadium the week before last confirmed what many feel. 

At Vanderbilt, things are looking up for the Commodores! We'll be back at FirstBank when Kentucky comes to town.
At Vanderbilt, things are looking up for the Commodores! We’ll be back at FirstBank when Kentucky comes to town.

The player that stirred the pot

They attributed the turnaround not so much to HC Clark Lea, but to QB Diego Pavia.  Of course, Lea deserves some credit.  He enticed Pavia to transfer to Vanderbilt the season after he led Mexico State to an unexpected 10-5 record including a 31-10 victory at SEC stalwart Auburn. However, he also enticed NMSU OC Tim Beck.  Prior to coaching at Las Cruces, Beck led highly successful D-2 Pittsburg State (KS) as head coach. He brought stability and direction to keep Pavia on course and improving.

Vandy’s record stands at 7-1 now, first time since 1990.  We watched them defeat No. 10 LSU, 31-34, to jump into that same spot in the AP poll last week as well. Then, they not only hosted No. 15 Missouri, but Game Day also showed up in Nashville for the first time since 2008 (couldn’t believe it wasn’t longer that). With the win over Missouri, the now No. 9 Commodores not only have a shot to make the College Football Playoff this year, in Pavia they also have a leading Heisman candidate.

Whoever saw this coming when we made our move to Middle Tennessee five years ago?  Have to admit, it’s great to have some big-time college football excitement now not far from Broadway in Nashville! We banked on Middle Tennessee in Murfreesboro stepping up. That’s not happening. More on that later.

Welcome back to this part of Tennessee, Tigers! Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (2) plunges over the LSU defense to take a 7-0 lead.
Welcome back to this part of Tennessee, Tigers! Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (2) plunges over the LSU defense to take a 7-0 lead.

Then there’s No. 14 Tennessee

We came here feeling the Volunteers would definitely be Top Dog in the Greenest State in the Land of the Free (“Davey, Davey Crockett – King of the Wild Frontier”).  In 2021, we watched Tennessee play in the Music City Bowl. At Nissan Stadium here in Nashville, Purdue pulled a last second upset, 48-45. Even with the 7-6 Vols surrounded by a sea of Orange (hard on these eyes).  In 2023, we watched the Vols in their season opener destroy Virginia, 49-13, on their way to a 9-4 record.  Note since relocating to Tennessee, we haven’t visited Neyland. 

Did get to Neyland in 2009. The Volunteers opened the season against FBS newcomer Western Kentucky. They triumphed to the tune of 63-7. “Are you sick of ‘Rocky Top‘”‘ yet?” whispered the grandmother next to me. I sat with her, her husband and grandson who I bought my ticket from for $25).  I can’t find a ticket price anywhere near that at any games played in Knoxville since. Maybe I’ll wait for the right price at the right time when the right game comes along. However, I have other college football priorities to achieve before I have to get back to Neyland for a high-price ticket right now.

My long-time friend and former work colleague, Mary Jean Shannon, who bleeds "Tennessee Orange", (second from left) joined us at the Tennessee-Virgina game at Nissan Stadium. From left to right, her daughter Grace, MJ, my wife "St. Laurie", MJ's husband Bruce, and a friend of Grace's joined us for pregame drinks and the UT win. All but St. Laurie attended the U of Tennessee.
My long-time friend and former work colleague, Mary Jean Shannon, who bleeds “Tennessee Orange”, (second from left) joined us at the Tennessee-Virgina game at Nissan Stadium. From left to right, her daughter Grace, MJ, my wife “St. Laurie”, MJ’s husband Bruce, and a friend of Grace’s joined us for pregame drinks and the UT win. All but St. Laurie attended the U of Tennessee.

A Tennessee team usually considered a foe

Being a Navy fan and as season ticket holder in Annapolis for 12 years, the Midshipmen generally compete with these Tiger in pretty significant conference games. The two have competed in some epic battles.  I’ve seen the Memphis Tigers play in Annapolis.  Navy won an exciting game, 22-21, in 2018.  After moving in 2021, the Tigers defeated the Mids at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, 35-17.

 The two will meet there again on Thanksgiving evening this year.  Our family has other plans elsewhere, but this will be a major event.  Navy currently stands 7-0, 5-0. They have some tough games ahead including at No. 12 Notre Dame. We’ll be there.  If they can get past two other good AAC foes (North Texas and USF), the game against the Tigers could mean the AAC title.  The No. 25 Tigers got by 18th-ranked South Florida last week, 34-31.  The week before, however, they suffered a 31-24 upset at the hands of UAB.  We will have to plan more games in this series at both teams’ venues over the years to come.

Memphis always hosts entertaining games. Besides teh Tigers, we have also seen some great matchups in the Liberty Bowl.
Memphis always hosts entertaining games. Besides the Tigers, we have also seen some great matchups in the Liberty Bowl. We plan to see Navy play the Tigers there again in the future.

Tennessee FCS teams

Last Saturday, we made our first trek to Cookeville to see the No. 8 Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles (8-0) host the Southeast Missouri Red Hawks (4-4) in a Big South-OVC clash.  Visited Cookeville several times years ago on business trips that influenced me to consider retiring to Tennessee.  Actually, supported a facility in nearby Sparta and not sure it it’s still there.  It may be a side trip. 

Tennessee Tech ties

The Tech HC in his second season is Bobby Wilder.  We attended Old Dominion games when that program started at the FBS level when he coached there.  Our Navy son lived in nearby Virgina Beach at the time. So, our trips to see ODU were special to us.  Wilder has his new program on a roll. We added Tucker Stadium as our 201st college football venue.  We hope that if our schedule works out after the regular season that we can catch an FCS playoff game there again.  Having seen No. 1 North Dakota State unleashed against struggling FCS Tennessee State earlier, we can make some comparisons to the best.  On January 6, 2026, the championship game will entertain us at FirstBank Stadium right here in Nashville, Tennessee. NDSU has dominated the FCS for years. Always tough to beat.

Looking forward to more Tennessee Tech games in Cookeville in the future.
Looking forward to more Tennessee Tech games in Cookeville in the future. Hopefully, an FCS play-off game this season will fit into our schedule.

Tech not the only FCS rodeo in Tennessee

Since moving to this great state, travels took us to see UT Chattanooga, Austin Peay and UT Martin action.  UTC has microbreweries just beyond both end zones at Finley Stadium.  Enjoyed the energy at Austin Peay when new, young HC Scotty Walden led that program.  He moved on to UTEP the year before last.  Going on an overnight to UT Martin, St. Laurie and yours truly had the opportunity to stop in Paris, Tennessee. We took pictures in front of the Eifel Tower there, of course. 

With photos, we could fool some family members that we visited the real Paris, France.  However, it did influence us somewhat to visit the real one on our vacation. Last June, we cruised the Seine River in France to visit Normandy Beach battle fields. Great honor to visit where the US forces and our Allies started freeing the European continent.

 Saw Tennessee State play twice; once at Austin Peay under Heisman award-winning HC Eddie George. The other at “home” in Nissan Stadium where they got demolished by FCS No. 1 North Dakota State in WEEK Two this season.

North Dakota State RB Barika Kpeenu starts the slaughter with his first of three touchdowns against the TSU Tigers at Nissan. Most likely, we'll see the Bison play at FirstBank later this season for FCS title once again.
North Dakota State RB Barika Kpeenu starts the slaughter with his first of three touchdowns against the TSU Tigers at Nissan. Most likely, we’ll see the Bison play at FirstBank later this season for FCS title once again.

Future Tennessee football considerations

Still have to get to an East Tennessee State home game. Tusculum plays D2 football out in Greenville not far from the Smokies.    What the heck, we even attended a game this year at D3 Sewanee, known as the University of the South.  It was a nostalgic trip for our friend Dave Oakley, class of ’69, who shared some memories running the Wing T formation for HC Shirley Majors. They just defeated South Atlantic foe Rhodes in Memphis last week to go 3-4.  Two more wins would match their highest victory total since 2011.

The Maryville Scots stand at 6-1. Get this: 9,285 fans showed up at their Lloyd Thornton Stadium with a capacity of 5,500. They defeated Centre College of Kentucky, 33-13. However, they fell a week later on the road to Berry who leads the SAC with a 4-0 record.  Maybe next year we’ll try to squeeze into Thornton when Berry visits.  Sounds like a fun D3 experience.

One stop this season included Sewanee vs. Brevard for our first D3 game in Tennessee. Nice to get break going to games without any media time-outs.
One stop this season included Sewanee vs. Brevard for our first D3 game in Tennessee. Nice to get a break going to college games without any media time-outs.

Biggest Tennessee disappointment

Coming to Tennessee, initially Vanderbilt’s rep couldn’t stimulate fandom and Tennessee Orange hurts the eyes from experiences at five bowl games they play in when we attended.  Then as mentioned, Neyland ticket prices exceeded the budget generally from week to week. So, Middle Tennessee seemed to offer the best chance to follow some good, local college football.  They started out ok, but the last two years, the team just can’t stir as much interest.  Derek Mason stepped in as coach with SEC experience and last season, like most schools, stocked up on the transfer portal.  At Red Floyd Stadium, the empty aluminum seats make the stadium look colder than what it is. 

No disrespect to HC Derek Mason, but having seen Scotty Walden coach at Austin Peay, he seemed like a young coach that could bring some new energy to Murfreesboro.  He went on to UTEP instead.  We invested in season tickets the previous two years before this one.  Mostly for the weekday games and for a couple of bigger programs when Colorado State and Duke came to town. However, the program isn’t giving us the impetus to follow as closely as we’d hope for. 

They now stand 1-7, 0-4 in Conference USA.  They lost close games, but that just doesn’t cut it.  Somehow the Blue Raider program has to generate some more excitement.  Kind to taking a wait and see approach to them in the future.  Hopefully, they can turn things around.

The MTSU Dance Team now ranks as one of our favorites! We hope their football program will be as much fun to watch in the future.
The MTSU Dance Team now ranks as one of our favorites! We hope their football program will be as much fun to watch in the future.

November for us

This weekend we head west to Arkansas to see the Razorbacks play at Donald W. Reynolds Razorbacks Stadium for our first ever Razorback home game. They and Mississippi State both show up with 0-4 SEC records. Should be a good game.  The following week, we head to South Bend, Indiana where we hope to see Navy (7-0) play No. 12 Notre Dame tougher and with fewer mistakes than they did last season when we saw them play each other in The Meadowlands. We recorded our 700th game that day.

On November 15, we return to Winston-Salem, NC to catch up with Jim “Bugaluga” Harton and friends to see what his Demon Deacons can do against a North Carolina team under struggling under college coach Bill Belichick. After that, a home game of sorts for us as we drive over to FirstBank Stadium to see Vanderbilt host Kentucky.  With family Thanksgiving in Florida, we plan to check in to see South Florida host Rice the Saturday after.  We’re hoping it’ll be a scouting trip in case USF clashes with Navy in the AAC championship game on Friday, December 5. Fun Saturdays ahead in November!   

Arkansas cheerleaders had lots to be happy about after the 2022 overtime Liberty Bowl win! Hope they have something to cheer about when we see their Razorbacks take on the MSU Bulldogs this weekend.
Arkansas cheerleaders had lots to be happy about after the 2022 overtime Liberty Bowl win! Hope they have something to cheer about when we see their Razorbacks take on the MSU Bulldogs this weekend.

Of course, more football history abounds beyond Tennessee in our latest book on Amazon.com. Recording fantastic football memories since 1972!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure having now seen all 136 FBS teams play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Bowls and play-off game lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

It was definitely a beautiful day to attend a game in Annapolis when we watched them defeat Air Force this season. Hopefully, Navy will show up with their best effort whens we see them play at Notre Dame on November 8.
It was definitely a beautiful day to attend a game in Annapolis when we watched Navy defeat Air Force this season. Hopefully, the Mids will show up with their best effort when we see them play at Notre Dame on November 8.